Southern School Notebook: May 11

It all adds up for Scarborough Middle School math teams

Scarborough Middle School math teams were part of the equation when winners were announced at the state math meet on May 1 in Portland, taking top awards for problem-solving.

In all, students from 29 schools completed problems in three categories: arithmetic, geometry, and team problem-solving. The sixth-grade team finished in first place with a perfect team problem-solving score. The seventh-grade team finished in second place, while the eighth-grade team finished in third place.

The following students received individual medals for their performance in arithmetic and geometry. For the sixth-graders, Priyanka Mittal came in first, while Alisha Mittal placed second and Brayden Couture came in fifth. Seventh-grader Adam Bendetson first place and eighth-grader Nathan Robinson, third.

“The kids are highly motivated, exceptional problem-solvers, and work well together,” said Randee-Sue Allen, the sixth-grade coach. “Our kids get lots of encouragement and support from their parents. Our success is truly a team effort.”

During the school year the three teams are combined to celebrate their love of math in February and Pi Day in March. Younger members are inspired and challenged by the older ones, enriching the mathematical learning experience.

The math team includes 52 students in grades 6-8 who compete in three regular math meets during the school year prior to the final state meet. Each middle school team has placed at several meets during the regular season, culminating in a strong finish at the state meet.

“During practices, students work on challenging problems, demonstrate perseverance and continually help each other to understand the math. It is impressive to see how well the students work together as a team and are incredibly supportive of each other,” eighth-grade team coach Mary Ann Page said.

Scarborough Middle School math teams are coached by middle school math teachers. Rounding out the teaching team is Nathan Wentworth, who coaches the seventh-graders.

So. Portland SMCC student named Mitchell Scholar

Southern Maine Community College student Isabelle Chimenti has received a George J. Mitchell Peace Scholarship to study in Ireland next year.

Chimenti, who is majoring in both Liberal Studies and Communications & New Media Studies, will attend Cork Institute of Technology for the spring semester of the 2018-19 academic year. She grew up in the western Maine town of New Portland and graduated from Caratunk High School in North Anson in 2011; she now lives in South Portland.

Chimenti said she plans to make the most of her time in Ireland, noting that her great-grandparents were originally from Ireland before emigrating to the U.S., and her great-grandmother was from the Cork region. “I’m just really excited to soak in everything over there,” she said.

The Maine Community College System and the University of Maine System created the scholarship as a tribute to former U.S. Sen. George Mitchell for his efforts to facilitate peace in Ireland and Northern Ireland. The Community College System awards two Mitchell scholarships each year to Maine community college students.

Chimenti is the eighth SMCC student since 2010 to be awarded a Mitchell Scholarship. The scholarship covers tuition and fees, books, room and board while also providing a living expense stipend and a travel grant.

Youths of the Year recognized by legislators

A South Portland boy was one of several young people recognized by the Maine Legislature recently when lawmakers welcomed the 2018 Youths of the Year from Maine Boys and Girls Clubs to the State House in April.

Samuel Boswell, other honorees, officials from the Boys and Girls Clubs and their guests met with legislators and observed the day’s legislative sessions.

Youth of the Year is the Boys & Girls Clubs signature effort to foster a new generation of leaders, fully prepared to live and lead in a diverse, global and integrated world economy. The Youths of the Year were selected for their incredible leadership qualities, including exceptional communications, consensus building and goal-setting skills.

At a dinner that evening, the Youths of the Year were presented with Legislative Sentiments honoring their achievement. A Legislative Sentiment is a significant expression by the Legislature in recognition of civic and public achievements.

Youth environmental convention convenes

The Maine Youth Environmental Association gathered at Scarborough High School on April 28 for its inaugural MYEA Convention for environmentally minded youth across Maine.

MYEA was started this school year by five students from southern Maine, with the mission to connect, unite, and inspire high school-level environmental clubs across the state, and to serve as the first youth-led coalition for Maine’s environment. Fifty students from Scarborough, Kennebunk, Cape Elizabeth, Waynflete, South Portland and Maine Girls Academy presented successes from this past year, and generate passion for the future. Additionally, local organizations such as 350 Maine, the Citizens’ Climate Lobby and USM Environmental shared their inspiration and expertise, as well as individuals that included pesticide protestor Eddie Woodin and Penobscot Indian Nation member June Sapiel.

MYEA welcomes new members and individuals or organizations; contact Raina Sparks at rainasparks@gmail.com.

Chimenti

Scarborough Middle School State Math Team participants finished strong at the state math meet in April, taking home several top-tier awards.